Earlier this summer, several large tree trunks came down on the river path during a storm. The giant Black Willow just south of Hutchinson was broken in half, and much of the Big Box Elder went down over the path taking out two sections of fence. The damage was substantial: smashed plants, gouged soils, the 100+ year old concrete and steel barrier broken. After much effort – the path has been re-opened, however there is still much repair to be done.
We could really use contributions to buy split rail fencing, replacement plants, and continue our efforts to revitalize this area.
Riverbank Neighbors is a project in Chicago. Neighbors who came together to clean up and tend the gardens of the riverbank of the Chicago River, also found they shared a calling towards larger goals of Environmental Justice.
We host regular work days you can find out about on our calendar or in our newsletter.
The riverbank in our neighborhood was eroded and full of trash before neighbors started to work together to clean it up and make it accessible.
The ancient ecosystem was all but wiped out on our land, but now the river path offers an experience of natural beauty. Our community leaders are stewards of the ecosystem, with deep ties to the North Branch Restoration Project. We gather seeds of precious, rare plants and spread them in protected areas. Workdays include maintaining the paths as education and work centered around maintaining this example of our ancient native Chicago ecosystem.
Countless volunteer groups have assisted in these efforts. Many many people have contributed to the beauty and we thank all of them.
We seek kindred spirits, who like to garden, gather seeds and learn the nuances of the ecosystem.
We invite artists, students, and community of all ages to come to our events, find a place for themselves in the project.
Riverbank Neighbors has maintained a newsletter for ~ 20 years. Join our email list below for neighborhood updates, information on upcoming work days and more ways to get involved: